Trader Joe's is great any time of year, and especially during the December holidays when they have tons of special imported items in all categories. The only problem is that you have to get there fast before they run out of stuff, as I've found out numerous times. I bought a lot of gift items and stocking stuffers on this visit, including wines, chocolates, teas, candies, cookies, candy cane-scented body lotion, flowers, and of course a tin of their famous Jingle Jangle chocolate-covered mix.

I've always been a fan of Trader Joe's, and the one in Portland is no exception. I especially love their fresh produce, cheeses, teas, yogurts, wines, sauces and dips, and prepared meals to go. I always look forward to their monthly flyer of specials -- it's written so creatively and humorously that it's a pleasure to read on its own. Although Trader Joe's is a specialty mart, their prices these days are more reasonable than the local supermarket's, which I thought I'd never see. Their customer service is fantastic, too.